First, may your unfailing love come to me (41-56). The basis of the Psalmist's adherence to the word of God is expressed in his hope and trust in the unfailing love of the Lord and his promise of salvation, which is revealed in his word. There he is protected from the taunts of others, there he receives true freedom and is protected from shame. Most of all, there he learns to love God. This love relationship did not insulate him from suffering or mocking or indignation at the hands of godless people. But in the word of God the Psalmist found comfort. What he remembered at the end of the day was the name of the Lord and his word. God's unfailing love gives us rest. Second, you are my portion, Lord (57-64). This is the offering of our life to the Lord, to be fully bound to him by his word. It is regardless of circumstance. It is also being bound to all who make their lives a similar offering to him. When we submit to the word, we learn that the earth is filled with God's love. We may be hard pressed, but that is where the Lord reveals himself to all who cling to his word. That is where God teaches us that we are ruled only and always by his sovereign love.
Application: Lord, be my portion. Teach me your word, that I may know your love.
One Word: The Lord's unfailing love